Type 1 Diabetes Navigation
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TRAVELING WITH DIABETES.
Diabetics can journey anywhere with a little forward planning. Keep the following in mind when organizing your trip so you'll enjoy the pleasures of travel.
A MONTH BEFORE YOU LEAVE:
Schedule an appointment with your physician for a check up. Ask your physician the procedure for self administration of an insulin injection on an airplane as pressurized cabins could mean you need to alter your normal way. Also, ask what should be done about following your medication schedule when changing time zones.
Get an extra prescription for every one of your medications.
Have your physician write a letter explaining that you are diabetic, outlining your treatment, medications, supplies, devices used, and any allergies or special instructions.
Get all immunization shots needed.
PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP:
Pack twice as many medications and diabetic supplies as you think you'll require. If you're traveling by airplane, put these in your carry-on bag. When arriving at your destination, put half in a bag you keep with you, and half in your suitcase. If you're traveling with a companion, ask them to carry some of your diabetic supplies in case you lose yours.
Pack your insulin in a special insulin travel bag that keeps it at the correct temperature. Insulin travel bags are available from diabetic and medical supply stores.
Pack the extra prescriptions from your physician and a list of your medications.
Pack the letter from your physician.
Pack glucose, hard candy, or some other sugar source food to combat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Pack a nutritious emergency snack pack so you don't miss a meal.
Pack a medical alert information card and be sure to wear your medical alert bracelet. Ensure your emergency contact information is updated before leaving.
Pack (and wear) comfortable, well-fitting shoes to prevent blisters.
IF YOU’RE TRAVELING BY AIR:
When making your airline (or cruise ship) reservations, request a diabetic meal. Don't take your medications until you have the meal on the tray in front of you so you don't get low blood sugar. If the flight does not have meal service, take a meal in your carry-on bag.
Contact the airport for special requirements for diabetics traveling with syringes, devices, and medications.
Get to the airport two to three hours before departure.
Notify the officers at security check points that you are carrying medical supplies. Your prescriptions MUST be in the original container and have a prescription label on them. All supplies MUST have a certified manufacturer's label on them. Put your medical supplies in a clear bag in your carry-on luggage. (Syringes are only allowed onto a plane if you are also carrying insulin.)
ALWAYS request a visual inspection instead of passing through the metal detector or being cleared with a hand wand.
AFTER YOU’VE ARRIVED:
Check your blood sugar regularly.
Remember to organize for meals and insulin injections.
Follow general traveling advice such as avoiding tap water in many places.
TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY:
If you're leaving the country, contact The International Diabetes Federation at (www.idf.org) for medication and prescription laws and special information for diabetics.
Contact The International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (www.iamat.org) before you leave to know what to do if an emergency happens and you need a diabetic doctor who speaks your native language.
Learn important phrases in the language of where you are traveling. For example, "I am diabetic," "I need sugar," or "I need a hospital." Write these phrases on a card and keep it with you. If you can't say the phrases properly, they will be easily read by someone who speaks the language.
Traveling with diabetes isn't too complicated - if you prepare yourself. Don't let your diabetes get in the way of your travels.
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